Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a regenerative medicine technique that harnesses the healing factors within your dog's own blood to reduce joint inflammation, slow cartilage degradation, and improve mobility. At Shivraj Pet Clinic & Lab, we discuss PRP as part of comprehensive joint disease management for appropriate patients.
What is PRP?
Platelet-Rich Plasma is a concentrated preparation of platelets derived from your dog's own blood. Platelets are best known for their role in clotting, but they also release growth factors — chemical signals that promote tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the production of new collagen and cartilage matrix.
In the context of joint disease, injecting PRP directly into an affected joint delivers a concentrated dose of these healing signals where they are needed most.
How PRP is Prepared
- A blood sample is taken from your dog (typically 10–20ml)
- The blood is placed in a centrifuge and spun at specific speeds to separate platelets from red blood cells and other components
- The platelet-concentrated fraction is collected — this is the PRP
- Under sedation, the PRP is injected directly into the affected joint using sterile technique
- The entire process takes approximately 30–45 minutes
Which Joint Conditions Benefit from PRP?
PRP is most commonly used for:
- Osteoarthritis (OA) — the most common indication. PRP reduces inflammation and may slow cartilage loss over time.
- Hip dysplasia — as an adjunct to medical management in dogs not yet requiring surgery
- Elbow dysplasia — early to moderate disease
- Cruciate ligament injury — some evidence supports PRP as part of post-surgical recovery
- Shoulder joint disease — osteochondrosis dissecans and bicipital tenosynovitis
PRP is generally most effective in mild to moderate joint disease. In advanced osteoarthritis with severe cartilage loss, PRP provides less benefit but can still reduce pain.
Benefits of PRP
- Autologous — uses the patient's own blood, eliminating the risk of immune reaction or disease transmission
- Reduces reliance on long-term NSAIDs — important for senior dogs with kidney or gastrointestinal concerns
- Minimal downtime — most dogs resume normal activity within 48–72 hours
- Repeatable — can be performed every 4–6 months as needed
What to Expect After Treatment
Mild soreness at the injection site for 2–3 days is normal — this is part of the initial inflammatory response that precedes healing. Most owners report noticeable improvement in mobility and comfort within 3–4 weeks. Some dogs require 2–3 treatments for optimal response.
PRP is most effective as part of a comprehensive arthritis management programme that includes weight control, appropriate exercise, and physiotherapy.
To discuss whether PRP therapy is appropriate for your dog's joint condition, call 077569 65169 and book a consultation at Shivraj Pet Clinic, Wakad & Pimple Saudagar.
